Category: Food

Retail News Asia is committed to providing both local and global retailers with the latest Food and Food & Beverage news throughout the Asian market. This on a daily base.

  • China remains Vietnam’s top rice importer

    China remains Vietnam’s top rice importer

    According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam exported 2.8 million tonnes of rice valued USD1.2bn in the first six months of 2017. Both the volume and value increased by 6.3% and 4.9% respectively compared to last year.

    However, average prices in the first five months decreased by 0.9% to USD445.5 per tonne compared to last year.

    China continues to be Vietnam’s top importer. In the first five months, Vietnam exported 1.1 million tonnes of rice to China for USD488m as demands from China is huge. Chinese traders often buy rice directly from the firms’ storage and then imported into China via border gates or commissioned another importer. They also re-export the rice to other countries.

    Pham Thai Binh, director of Trung An Hi-tech Farming JSC, said requirements from Chinese traders were getting tighter, similar to other markets like the US and Japan. Not only the rice must be safe but their origin could also be tracked. Currently, only 22 out of 150 Vietnamese firms were able to export to China.

    Despite exporting huge volumes of rice to China, Vietnam is still unable to build a recognisable brand name there as most of the rice is repackaged by Chinese traders.

    Loc Troi Group is the only firm that have a contract with Hunan Leading Science and Technology Development Co Ltd to officially distribute rice and other agriculture products in an attempt to build a Vietnamese rice brand in China.

  • Mad Mex plans five-country Asian restaurant rollout

    Mad Mex plans five-country Asian restaurant rollout

    Australian Mexican restaurant chain Mad Mex plans to expand into Asia, starting with its first Singapore restaurant this month.

    An inaugural Malaysian store is on track to open in December, and Indonesia and Thailand are also on the list.

    Mad Mex, which recently partnered with Singapore’s 4Fingers group, runs 70 restaurants in Australia and New Zealand and claims to have served up more than 4 million burritos within the last year.

    “Asia is a growth market with diverse cultures and adventurous appetites for great tastes and flavours, which is perfect for Mad Mex,” said founder Clovis Young.

    “The expansion into Asia Pacific comes at an exciting time for Mad Mex: we’ve launched our Fresh Fuel for Life brand positioning which highlights our continued commitment to best-quality Mexican food, packed with fresh and healthy ingredients to fuel our amigos’ lives and passions. We pride ourselves on providing real food with no nasties, and big bold authentic flavours to nourish real people on the go.”

    Young said Southeast Asia is in the midst of a food revolution towards healthy eating, and believes Mad Mex’s healthy, quality offer will resonate with local customers.

    “We are very excited by the opportunity and we have big plans for the next five years.“

    Mad Mex has opened in Singapore’s Marina Bay financial district. With 4Fingers the company plans to make the most of local market knowledge in growing both brands in Singapore, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia.

    Meanwhile, the company has reported like-for-like sales growth of 6.5 per cent this year and 70 consecutive weeks of sales growth in its core Australian market.

    “The results our team has delivered are truly remarkable and a demonstration of the passion and enthusiasm our restaurant teams have for the food and the brand. The last year has been very tough for retailers, so this performance really is exceptional.”

  • Grape Co fined for misleading consumers on grape origins

    Grape Co fined for misleading consumers on grape origins

    Grape Co Australia has been fined $34,920 by Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) for making false and misleading representations on grape origins and breaching the Horticulture Code.

    In a statement on its website, Victorian table grape traders said: “Every single one of our grapes is personally hand-selected from the finest fruit on our family’s estate in Sunraysia Australia.”

    The statement later was found false and misleading under the Australian Consumer Law as it implied all grapes of Grape Co are grown in the family estate, however some of them are grown on third-party growers’ properties.

    “Food producers must ensure they do not mislead consumers with marketing statements about the place of origin of goods or produce,” said Mick Keogh, deputy chair of ACCC. “This not only impacts consumers but can also prevent other businesses who are careful about being accurate in their marketing from competing on a level playing field.

    “Consumers looking to support small businesses may make purchasing decisions based on representations that the produce is sourced from a family farm, and it is important they are not misled so they get what they pay for.”

    The company has also been alleged of breaching The Horticulture Code as it traded without written Horticulture Produce Agreements when acting as an agent for grape growers, and failed to prepare, publish and make publicly available its terms of trade.

    “Terms of trade allow growers to understand the services and aspects of trading provided by different traders so that growers can make an informed decision as to who they wish to supply produce to,” said Keogh.

  • Neuhaus launches praline and coffee food pairing ritual

    Neuhaus launches praline and coffee food pairing ritual

    Neuhaus has launched its first praline and coffee food pairing ritual in Asia in an exclusive Travel Retail partnership with Gebr. Heinemann. The pairing is solely available in selected Sweet Dreams by Heinemann shops at Hong Kong International Airport.

    The Neuhaus Coffee & Pralines Collection showcases six pralines and two types of coffee from Brazil and Colombia.

    Neuhaus’ master chocolatiers have created two sets of pralines to be paired with coffee. Each set comprises three pralines created to match with a single origin coffee from either Columbia or Brazil.

    DELICATE TO INTENSE

    The three pralines are eaten one after the other in a specific order building from delicate to intense together with coffee from the same region.

    Available in two versions, The Coffee & Pralines Collection contains 36 pralines and two 100-g packets of Brazil and Colombia single origin coffees — enough for 12 coffee and praline rituals.

    The Origin Box contains 24 pralines. Both presentations boxes are simple with a luxurious finish. They both contain a leaflet that provides full details of the production process and ideal coffee ritual.

    Alexandra Bevernage, Global Travel Retail Director Neuhaus Chocolates said: “This first and exclusive launch in Asia of our unique Coffee Pairing collection underscores the importance of the region to Neuhaus.

    NATURAL FIT

    “Heinemann is one of the most forward-looking companies in the region, making the collaboration with Neuhaus, who invented the Belgian praline, a natural fit. We are developing more exciting projects and will continue to work on building strong offerings in Asia so as to continue leading the premium chocolate category.”

    Johannes Sammann, COO Heinemann Asia Pacific added: “We are very excited to partner with Neuhaus for this exclusive launch in Asia. The unique coffee pairing collection from Neuhaus is definitely the first of its kind and its launch in Asia through our Sweet Dreams by Heinemann stores at Hong Kong International Airport underscores how important Hong King is for the confectionery category.

    “As we continue to grow this category in Hong Kong, we will be bringing many more of such exclusive launches.”

  • New Zealand’s Finery zero per cent cocktails launch in Australia

    New Zealand’s Finery zero per cent cocktails launch in Australia

    Aussie consumers are to get more non-alcoholic choices as New Zealand’s cocktails brand Finery launches alcohol-free cocktails in Australia.

    Created by The Fine People, The Finery zero percent cocktails range consists of four flavors, using a blend of distilled extracts, tinctures, and natural flavors to deliver a collection of premium blend beverages, free from alcohol.

    The range is also free from sugar, carbohydrates, gluten, and preservatives, with vegan-friendly options.

    “With more people looking for non-alcoholic drink options than ever before, we wanted to offer a delicious drink without the sugary calories often associated with non-alcoholic drinks,” said Jane Allan, co-founder of The Fine People.

    “By removing the alcohol content we’ve made it even healthier than before, ensuring non-drinkers get to enjoy the taste of the original Finery, without the calories associated with alcohol.”

    Finery zero percent cocktails will be available across Dan Murphy’s stores across the country. The products are sold in packs of four with an RRP of AU$15.95.

  • Lotteria to debut in Mongolia

    Lotteria to debut in Mongolia

    Korean conglomerate Lotte is launching its fast-food chain Lotteria in Mongolia.

    The brand’s restaurant franchise unit, Lotte GRS, will open its first location in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar and increase outlets to 10 over the next four years. The move follows an agreement with Mongolian restaurant and theatre operator Eugenetek Mongolia, which has signed on as master franchisor.

    A spokesperson for Lotte GRS said the flagship store’s prime location within the city’s commercial district, together with Mongolia’s young population and local enthusiasm for Korean culture, should contribute to the success of the new restaurant.

    Lotte GRS has previously expanded into China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar and Cambodia with its Lotteria chain as well as its Angel-in-us cafe franchise.

  • DFS Group Whiskey Festival at Hong Kong airport

    DFS Group Whiskey Festival at Hong Kong airport

    More than 100 whiskies are available for sampling in-store, including Suntory Chita Single Grain; Johnnie Walker Blender’s Batch 2: Bourbon Cask & Rye Finish; Royal Salute Polo Collection 2017; Bowmore’s new travel retail exclusive age statement range of 10 Year Old, 15 Year Old and 18 Year Old expressions; and Woodford Reserve Personal Selection.

    “As interest in whiskey continues to grow, we’re thrilled to provide travellers with a chance to celebrate all things whiskey with the launch of our first-ever global Whiskey Festival,” said Brooke Supernaw, DFS Group’s senior vice president, wines, spirits, tobacco, food and gifts.

    “From collectors to those trying whiskey for the first time, the Whiskey Festival is designed for discovery, offering a way to explore this multifaceted spirit.”

    The DFS Whiskey Festival is taking place in the during the DFS, Hong Kong International Airport from the 1st to 30th of June.

    Earlier this year DFS Group hosted its sixth Masters of Wines and Spirits event, which saw more than 60 rare Cognacs, wines and whiskies from over 50 houses showcased at a gala event in Singapore.

  • Singapore’s Putien to open in Taiwan

    Singapore’s Putien to open in Taiwan

    Singaporean restaurant chain Putien is to enter Taiwan by the end of this year.

    The expansion – in partnership with Taiwanese restaurant group Wowprime – follows Putien’s forays into Shanghai last June and Hong Kong last year.

    Putien has been serving traditional Fujian meals in Singapore for 15 years.

    Wowprime, a listed Taiwanese restaurateur, has already opened an Italian-influenced vegetarian restaurant at Raffles City in Singapore in partnership with Putien, called Sufood. Putien will be Wowprime’s first Chinese restaurant concept to launch in Taiwan – until now the company has been best known for running steakhouses and Japanese restaurants.

    Both companies say the Taiwanese menu will closely follow Putien’s successful Singapore concept and the restaurant will be pitched to the middle market.

    The two companies plan a chain of about 20 restaurants, opening them at a rate of about three annually.

    At home, Putien has 10 restaurants trading already with an 11th scheduled to open at Causeway Point later this year and a second Sufood at Wheelock Place.

  • Rice exports surge to new record

    Rice exports surge to new record

    According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam set a new record in rice export revenue in the first nine months of 2023 thanks to price increases.

    The ministry has reported that the country earned US$3.66 billion from exporting rice in the period, up 40.4% year-on-year.

    The result was attributed to the increasing price of Vietnamese export rice, and the decreasing rice supplies in many markets during the reviewed period, it said.

    Vietnam’s average price of exported rice in the first three quarters reached $553 per tonne, a 14% increase over the same period in the previous year.

    The Philippines was the largest buyer of Vietnamese rice products in the first eight months, accounting for 40.3% of the total rice export. China and Indonesia ranked second and third, accounting for 13.5% and 12.4%, respectively.

    According to Vice General Director of the Export-Import Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade Tran Thanh Hai, the price of exported rice is expected to remain high until the end of this year due to the continued demand for rice imports in major consuming markets such as the Philippines, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Africa. This is coupled with the limited supply of rice from leading rice exporters like India and Pakistan.

    President of the Vietnam Food Association (VFA) Nguyen Ngoc Nam stressed that there is ample room for rice exports to grow, especially as the Philippines needs to import an additional 1.1 million tonnes, while Indonesia plans to buy 2.3 million tonnes by the end of the year.

    China’s demand for rice imports is also forecast to increase in the remaining months of the year, Nam said.

    Rice exporters are advised to have appropriate strategies to ensure the ability to meet exports.

  • Jollibee Becomes Brunei’s No.1 Fastfood Chain

    Jollibee Becomes Brunei’s No.1 Fastfood Chain

    Chargé d’ Affaires, a.i Pete Raymond V. Delfin of the Philippine Embassy in Brunei Darussalam met with Jollibee Foods Corporation Assistant Vice President Rodel F. Alcantara, and Jollibee Country Head Christina R. Ward at the Embassy on 10 August 2018.

    Mr. Alcantara and Ms. Ward paid a courtesy call on Chargé d’ Affaires Delfin to share information on the recent activities being undertaken by Jollibee Brunei.

    The two executives discussed the positive business experiences of Jollibee in the country, having become the no. 1 fastfood chain in Brunei. Mr. Alcantara also said Jollibee’s operation in Brunei is currently the strongest among its international operations.

    Chargé d’ Affaires, a.i. Pete Raymond V. Delfin, during his meeting with Jollibee Foods Corporation Assistant Vice President and Market Head Rodel F. Alcantara, and Jollibee County Head Christina R. Ward at the Philippine Embassy in Brunei Darussalam on 10 August 2018.

    Mr. Alcantara delivered an invitation for Embassy officials to grace the opening of the 17th Jollibee store in Brunei in October 2018.

  • Suntory Elevates Craft Gin Roku at Innovative Concept Shop in Tokyo

    Suntory Elevates Craft Gin Roku at Innovative Concept Shop in Tokyo

    Tokyo is the latest stage for Suntory Holdings, as the renowned beverage maker unveils a concept shop dedicated to its handcrafted gin, Roku. This innovative move aims not only to promote the exquisite flavors of Japanese craft gin but also to reflect Suntory’s commitment to enhancing its spirits production capabilities.

    Roku, which burst onto the scene in 2017, has quickly gained a global following. Available in around 60 countries, a remarkable 90% of its sales are generated from international markets. This speaks volumes about the growing appreciation for craft spirits worldwide, especially those with a distinctly Japanese twist.

    As Suntory ramps up its investment in production capacity, it’s clear that the company is not just mixing drinks; it’s crafting a culture around them. Whether you’re an aficionado of fine spirits or just starting on your tasting journey, the world of Roku is one you won’t want to miss.

    Given the brand’s burgeoning appeal, it’s intriguing to ponder — can gin really become the new sake? In the land of the rising sun, traditions are always at play, but there’s room for something new to shine.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of Suntory’s concept shop?
    The concept shop aims to boost awareness of its Japanese craft gin, Roku, while showcasing Suntory’s commitment to enhancing its spirits production capacity.

    When was Roku launched and how widely is it sold?
    Roku was launched in 2017 and is currently sold in approximately 60 countries, with around 90% of its sales coming from markets outside Japan.

    Is there a growing trend towards craft spirits in Japan?
    Absolutely! The global fascination with craft spirits, especially those that carry a unique cultural identity like Roku, indicates a thriving trend in the market.

  • Whittaker’s Unveils New Peanut & Caramel Brittle Chocolate: A Sustainable Delight Now Available In Australia

    Whittaker’s Unveils New Peanut & Caramel Brittle Chocolate: A Sustainable Delight Now Available In Australia

    Whittaker’s, the famed chocolatier, has introduced a new chocolate block called Peanut & Caramel Brittle. This delicious new concoction is produced exclusively in the company’s solitary factory situated in Porirua, New Zealand.

    A Delicious Symphony of Flavours and Textures

    Weighing in at 250g, the Peanut & Caramel Brittle chocolate block offers a unique blend of smooth milk chocolate, freshly roasted peanuts, and creamy salted caramel brittle. This combination results in an irresistible blend of various textures and flavours that is sure to delight any chocolate enthusiast.

    A Conscientious Approach to Chocolate Making

    Each Peanut & Caramel Brittle block is entirely free from palm oil. Additionally, the cocoa utilized in its creation is 100% certified by the Rainforest Alliance. This ensures that each mouthful not only delights your taste buds, but also supports sustainable cocoa farming practices.

    Holly Whittaker, the co-Chief Operating Officer at Whittaker’s, shared insights about the new product. She explained that the peanut-centric flavour was specifically developed to provide a balanced blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements.

    “We are eagerly anticipating the response from chocolate lovers. We believe this is something unique and we can’t wait to hear their feedback,” she stated.

    Availability

    The Peanut & Caramel Brittle is now available for purchase in Australia. You can find it at your local Coles and Woolworths stores, priced at $8 per block.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main flavour in Whittaker’s new chocolate block?
    The main flavour in Whittaker’s new chocolate block is Peanut & Caramel Brittle.

    Is the Peanut & Caramel Brittle chocolate block free from palm oil?
    Yes, the Peanut & Caramel Brittle chocolate block is completely free from palm oil.

    Where can the new Whittaker’s chocolate block be purchased in Australia?
    The new Whittaker’s chocolate block can be bought at Coles and Woolworths stores across Australia.

  • Penang Takes Bold Stand Against Counterfeit Balik Pulau Durians to Safeguard Authenticity

    Penang Takes Bold Stand Against Counterfeit Balik Pulau Durians to Safeguard Authenticity

    Fahmi Zainol, chairman of Penang’s Agrotechnology, Food Security, and Cooperative Development Committee, announced on Tuesday that a collaborative operation is underway, involving the police, the Agriculture Department, and the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority, as reported by the national news agency Bernama.

    Cracking Down on Durian Deceit

    “We’ve pinpointed two or three hotspots where trucks are bringing in durians from Thailand but selling them off as local produce,” Fahmi said, emphasizing that authorities are now gearing up for the perfect moment to initiate raids. This crackdown is a direct response to public complaints and ongoing inspections. As part of their enforcement measures, agencies have ramped up efforts by setting up roadblocks aimed at intercepting non-compliant agricultural products—especially durians.

    Fahmi made it clear that while durians from other regions aren’t outright banned, they mustn’t be misrepresented as Balik Pulau’s prized variety. To protect the unique identity of its durians, Penang launched the “Track and Trace” system at the beginning of June. This innovative program labels each durian with a QR code that links it back to its farm of origin, according to Bloomberg.

    “This way, consumers can trace every durian from farm to table,” Fahmi explained, with a hint of pride in his voice. So far, 60 farmers have joined the system, while 20 larger producers have already signed up, as reported earlier this month by The Star.

    Balik Pulau, well-known for its mouthwatering durians, is also a favored tourist destination in Penang, a major hub for durian production. The Balik Pulau variety ranks among the most sought-after in Malaysia, alongside other local favorites like Musang King, Red Prawn, and Black Thorn.

    With the recent onset of durian season coinciding with Malaysia’s school holidays, local media reported a surge in tourist arrivals in Penang. Hotels are nearly at full capacity, and busy traffic is evident, especially around popular durian-selling spots.

    Beyond domestic consumption, Malaysia is making its mark in international markets by exporting durians to places like China, boasting projections that outbound shipments could reach 1.8 billion ringgit (US$425 million) by 2030. Last year alone, Penang exported an impressive 67,203 kilograms of durians, which is enough to make any durian lover’s head spin.

    Questions & Answers

    What steps is Penang taking to ensure durian authenticity?
    Penang has implemented a “Track and Trace” system tagged with QR codes that allows consumers to trace each durian back to its farm, thereby safeguarding authenticity.

    Why is there a crackdown on durian sales?
    Authorities aim to crack down on fraudulent sales where Thai durians are misrepresented as local Balik Pulau varieties, responding to public complaints and ongoing inspections.

    How do durians contribute to Penang’s tourism?
    With the durian season aligning with school holidays, tourist arrivals have surged, leading to nearly full hotels and bustling traffic around durian hotspots, solidifying the fruit’s role in the local economy.

  • Hong Kong’s Beloved Ancient Moon Restaurant Closes Amid Shifting Consumer Trends And Family Priorities

    Hong Kong’s Beloved Ancient Moon Restaurant Closes Amid Shifting Consumer Trends And Family Priorities

    “We have tried to adapt but our ability and resources are limited,” the owners shared in a heartfelt Instagram post that captures both their frustration and resilience. After dedicating 11 years to cultivating their space, they are shutting the doors to Ancient Moon, a beloved restaurant in Hong Kong, as they prioritize spending more time with family amidst challenging external conditions. However, there’s a silver lining: their other establishment, “The Second Phase,” will continue to serve the community.

    Recognition Amidst Adversity

    Known for its culinary prowess, Ancient Moon was recently honored with a Bib Gourmand designation in the 2024 Michelin Guide for Hong Kong and Macau. This accolade celebrates eateries providing “high-quality food for only HKD400 (US$50) or less,” making it a standout choice for those seeking a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

    However, Ancient Moon’s closure is part of a broader trend affecting many small businesses throughout Hong Kong’s restaurant scene. Shifting consumer habits have put significant pressure on local eateries, as noted by the South China Morning Post. The statistics are telling: Hong Kong’s retail sales dipped for the 14th month in a row as of April, sliding 2.3% year-on-year to HKD28.9 billion. The situation has deteriorated further, with retail sales down 5.6% in the first four months of 2025.

    Consumer Trends Shift

    This downturn is partially attributed to locals choosing to shop in Shenzhen for more affordable options or indulging in travel, spurred by the Hong Kong dollar’s strength against currencies like the yen. Additionally, the recent influx of tourists seems to favor cultural experiences rather than shelling out for upscale dining and luxury shopping.

    The woes don’t stop at Ancient Moon. King Parrot Group, a popular restaurant operator, recently closed nine of its eateries, reportedly owing staff more than HKD1 million. This decision follows years of scaling back operations, marking a tough chapter for the once-thriving enterprise known for over 20 restaurant brands at its pinnacle. According to Nerine Yip Lau-ching, general secretary of the Hotels, Food and Beverage Employees Association, employees were informed of the closures and paid their outstanding wages immediately.

    In a similar vein, Los Angeles-based sandwich chain Eggslut exited Hong Kong’s scene less than two years after its debut. The high cost of commercial rents has exacerbated the trend. Notable victims include Transformers: The Ark Restaurant, a hamburger and pizza venue that previously paid up to HKD1 million monthly in rent in Causeway Bay, one of the world’s most expensive retail hotspots, before shuttering last year.

    With these developments, one can’t help but wonder: could the charm of local eateries bounce back amidst adversity? Only time will tell, but the culinary landscape continues to evolve.

    Questions & Answers

    What were the primary reasons for Ancient Moon’s closure?
    The owners cited challenging external conditions and a desire to spend more time with their families.

    What recognition did Ancient Moon receive before its closure?
    The restaurant earned a Bib Gourmand designation in the 2024 Michelin Guide for Hong Kong and Macau.

    How are consumer trends impacting the restaurant industry in Hong Kong?
    Many locals are opting to shop in Shenzhen or travel overseas for better value, significantly affecting local restaurants, while tourists are leaning toward cultural experiences rather than luxury dining.

  • Bega Cheese Eyes Acquisition Of Fonterra Oceania: A Potential Boost For Australia’s Dairy Industry

    Bega Cheese Eyes Acquisition Of Fonterra Oceania: A Potential Boost For Australia’s Dairy Industry

    Bega Cheese, an Australian dairy company, has indicated its intention to file an application with the Australia Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) seeking authorisation for its planned acquisition of Fonterra Oceania.

    Enhancing Outcomes through Acquisition

    Bega Cheese believes that the prospective acquisition would greatly improve the company’s performance and efficiency, and it would also have substantial benefits for the broader dairy industry. The company argues that combining its resources with those of Fonterra Oceania would result in improved efficiencies and outcomes for Australian dairy farmers, customers, and consumers.

    Bega Cheese is of the view that it is the most suitable acquirer of Fonterra’s Oceania businesses and is keenly interested in pursuing this opportunity. The company is hopeful of engaging in productive discussions with Fonterra Group on the sale of its Oceania businesses.

    Domestic Acquisition not Subject to Foreign Review

    As Bega Cheese is an Australian business, it expects that the potential acquisition will not require the approval of the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB).

    Fonterra’s Divestiture Strategy

    In November, Fonterra revealed its plans to divest by pursuing a trade sale and an initial public offering of its global consumer business, as well as its integrated businesses Fonterra Oceania and Fonterra Sri Lanka. The company believes that this divestment will allow it to concentrate its resources on the ingredients and foodservice businesses, thereby maximising value.

    Fonterra’s consumer business includes the operations and marketing of a variety of brands, such as Mainland, Anchor, Kapiti, and Anlene.

    Questions & Answers

    Why is Bega Cheese planning to acquire Fonterra Oceania?
    Bega Cheese believes that the acquisition of Fonterra Oceania would greatly improve its own business efficiencies and performance.

    Who needs to approve the acquisition?
    The Australia Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) needs to approve the acquisition.

    What is Fonterra’s rationale behind its divestiture strategy?
    Fonterra believes that by divesting, it will be able to concentrate its resources on the ingredients and foodservice businesses, thereby maximising value.